WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, are applauding the Congressional passage of bipartisan, bicameral legislation to improve veterans’ access to healthcare and benefits. The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act includes the King, Cramer bipartisan legislation reauthorizing the Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET-TEC) program that helps veterans access high-technology jobs. The VET-TEC program provides tuition at eligible training institutions, housing stipends, and connections with potential employers.

Since its start in 2017, VET-TEC has helped thousands of veterans get jobs in the technology sector with an average starting salary of over $65,000 – but current authorization for the program expired earlier this year.

“The VET-TEC program has been an exceptional resource for thousands of veterans looking for good-paying jobs in the tech sector,” said Senator King. “The reauthorization of the VET-TEC Authorization Act expands eligibility for both veterans and training institutions and is a commonsense step to give even more veterans access to opportunities in tech. While there is always areas where we disagree, I am glad both chambers and both parties came together to support our men and women who answered the call.”

“The VET-TEC program has created effective pathways for veterans to launch their careers in tech,” said Senator Cramer. “Building on its successes, this reauthorization expands eligibility to allow more veterans to participate in the program. Supporting our veterans includes enhancing the employment resources and opportunities available to them. I appreciate Congress’ support of this bill and I look forward to the President signing it into law.”

Created in 2017’s Forever G.I. Bill, the VET-TEC pilot program has 31 approved education providers that have trained over 8,000 veterans, and helped thousands start high-tech jobs with an average starting salary of $65,061. The program is currently partnered with 14 employers including the VA’s own Office of Information and Technology, which seeks VET-TEC graduates for filling internal vacancies.

Representing one of the states with the highest rates of veterans per capita, Senator King is a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, he has worked to ensure that veterans have access jobs and training after separating from military service. He recently cosponsored bipartisan legislation to provide veterans with job opportunities in the trucking industry.

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